Spices make our dishes complex and tasty but they’re an important part of a wholesome diet as well. Besides being delicious the spices in our foods may be helping our bodies combat against common diseases and ailments. There are five spices essential to your spice cabinets that aren’t just a great addition to your favorite dinner but for your overall health.

 

1. Turmeric: Known for its bright yellow color turmeric is a member of the ginger family and found in practically all curry spice blends. Turmeric is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Studies have even shown that turmeric may help to protect your body against certain types of cancers. Next time you’re making a stir-fry, add turmeric into the oil before the vegetables are added.

 

 

 

 

 

2. Cinnamon: A great way to curb your sweet tooth is to add this sweet spice to your dishes. Used in Indian and Chinese medicine for centuries, cinnamon contains iron, calcium, manganese, and fiber. Cinnamon can control blood sugar and is loaded with antioxidants to help protect your cells from harmful free agents. Cinnamon is found in lots of desserts and is a great treat when mixed in with dark chocolate.

 

 

 

 

 

3. Ginger: Like cinnamon, ginger has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries as a way to help with gastrointestinal problems and nausea. Ginger also aids in coughs and congestions from the flu and the common cold. But that’s not it! Ginger also has been shown to relieve pain and inflammation caused from arthritis or tightness from overdoing it at the gym. Add ginger to rices dishes or try freshly made ginger ale.

 

 

4. Oregano: Already a staple in kitchens everywhere this spice is fiber-rich with anti-bacterial properties and may also help with improving digestion. Oregano is such a pro at warding off harmful bacteria, oregano extract can be found in some mouthwashes. Since oregano is a native Italian spice, it is a wonderful addition to tomato sauces, meat rubs, and to garnish fresh vegetables.

 

 

 

 

5. Capsaicin: Studies have shown that capsaicin, found in hot chili peppers, can help maintain body weight by suppressing appetites and burning calories after a meal. Capsaicin may be able to suppress body fat accumulation but that doesn’t mean you should forget the gym and eat a chili pepper snack instead.  Besides helping you keep trim, when applied topically, capsaicin ironically helps ease pain.